Specsavers Canada is encouraging Canadians to make eye exams a regular health priority, noting that many people only book an appointment when they notice a problem with their vision. According to Naomi Barber, clinical services director at Specsavers Canada, that approach can mean missing important changes in eye health. “When people think about eye exams, they often figure it’s time to get a new prescription,” says Barber. “But they also play a role in preventative eyecare. Regular eye exams can help your optometrist monitor your vision and eye health over time, to help spot changes early and give you the support you need. It’s the same principle as getting a dental checkup or a physical — it’s about catching things before they become noticeable problems.”
Vision changes can develop gradually and go unnoticed for some time, with symptoms like squinting or headaches often attributed to other causes. Barber notes that understanding what is happening with one’s eyes can bring significant relief. “When people learn how their eyes are changing and how a vision condition can be impacting their sight, they’re usually relieved to have answers,” she says. “A better understanding of your vision needs can help you make informed decisions that support your lifestyle.” A comprehensive eye exam goes beyond checking for a new prescription, giving optometrists the opportunity to assess overall eye health and track changes over time.
One of the more significant reasons to book regularly is that many serious conditions can progress without any noticeable symptoms. “Many eye conditions can progress without symptoms or noticeable changes to vision,” says Barber, “which is why optometrists use a range of tests during exams, including optical coherence tomography (OCT).” OCT is a 3D advanced eye health scan that examines the back of the eye and can help enable early detection of conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Specsavers equips its locations with OCT technology so it can be included as part of every comprehensive eye exam. To learn more or to book an appointment, visit Specsavers.ca.
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